How Much Does It Cost to Re-Side a House?

Re-siding your home is one of the most effective ways to upgrade its exterior. From boosting curb appeal to improving insulation and weather resistance, new siding offers both visual and practical benefits. Since costs can vary widely based on material and square footage, knowing what to expect helps you choose the best option for your budget and needs.

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Average Cost to Re-side a House

House re-siding costs vary widely depending on the material, size of the home, and the complexity of the job. Most homeowners pay between $4 and $13 per square foot, which adds up to $10,000 to $32,500 for a 2,500-square-foot home. For a smaller 1,500-square-foot house, the typical cost ranges from $6,000 to $19,500. Large homes with premium siding can exceed $40,000.

Project costs are generally split between materials and labor. Materials usually make up 50 to 55 percent of the total, while labor accounts for the remaining 45 to 50 percent. A $20,000 siding job would include around $10,000 to $11,000 in materials and $9,000 to $10,000 in labor.

Cost Examples by Home Size

• 1,000 sq ft home: $4,000 – $13,000
• 1,500 sq ft home: $6,000 – $19,500
• 2,000 sq ft home: $8,000 – $26,000
• 2,500 sq ft home: $10,000 – $32,500

These price ranges account for everything from standard vinyl siding to high-end materials like fiber cement and stone veneer, giving you a clearer sense of where your project may land on the cost spectrum.

Siding Material Options and Costs

Choosing the right siding material influences not just your upfront costs, but also your home’s appearance, durability, and ongoing maintenance needs. Each material comes with its own benefits, drawbacks, and price range, so understanding the differences is essential to making the best choice for your home.

Vinyl Siding

Vinyl siding costs $4 to $12 per square foot installed or $10,000 to $30,000 for an average 2,500-square-foot house. As America’s most popular siding choice, vinyl delivers excellent value through low maintenance requirements and impressive durability lasting 30 to 40 years.

Vinyl Siding Advantages

• Excellent weather resistance and fade protection
• No painting or staining required
• Lightweight installation reduces labor costs
• Wide variety of colors and textures available
• Most affordable option for most homeowners

Fiber Cement (James Hardie)

Fiber cement siding costs $6 to $15 per square foot installed, or $10,200 to $31,500 for an average home. This premium option combines durability with aesthetic versatility, offering superior fire and weather resistance compared to traditional materials.

James Hardie, the leading fiber cement manufacturer, provides products engineered for different climate zones, ensuring optimal performance regardless of your location. The material resists pests, moisture, and extreme weather while maintaining its appearance for decades.

Fiber Cement Benefits

• Class A fire resistance rating
• Withstands hurricane-force winds and hail
• Available in wood, stone, and smooth textures
• 30-50 year manufacturer warranties
• Excellent return on investment

Wood Siding

Natural wood siding costs $7 to $23 per square foot installed, making it one of the pricier options. However, wood provides unmatched natural beauty and can be customized through staining or painting to achieve any desired look.

Wood Siding Considerations

• Requires regular maintenance every 3-5 years
• Susceptible to pest damage and moisture issues
• Premium cedar and redwood offer better durability
• Can last 50+ years with proper care
• Higher initial cost justified by timeless appeal

Engineered Wood

Engineered wood typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000 for installation, making it an affordable alternative to natural wood. This manufactured product combines wood fibers with resins and protective treatments to create a durable, pre-finished material.

Metal Siding (Aluminum and Steel)

Metal siding costs $7 to $16 per square foot installed for steel or $6 to $10 per square foot installed for aluminum. Metal options provide exceptional durability and fire resistance, though they come with higher upfront costs.

Metal Siding Features

• 40-70+ year lifespan with proper maintenance
• Non-combustible fire protection
• Excellent for extreme weather climates
• Modern aesthetic appeal
• Recyclable and environmentally friendly

Brick and Stone Veneer

Premium masonry options represent the highest-cost siding materials, with natural stone installation ranging from $30 to $48 per square foot. However, these materials offer unmatched durability and can last centuries with minimal maintenance.

Additional Cost Factors

Beyond material selection, several factors influence your total project cost.

House Size and Complexity

Multi-story homes require scaffolding and specialized safety equipment, increasing labor costs by 20-40%. Architectural features like dormers, bay windows, and intricate trim work add complexity and expense to any project.

Removal of Old Siding

Old siding removal costs $0.70 to $2.00 per square foot extra. This essential step ensures proper installation but adds $1,400-$4,000 to a typical 2,000 square foot project. Some contractors include removal in their base quotes, while others charge separately.

Insulation and Moisture Barriers

Upgrading insulation during siding replacement costs $1.00 to $4.50 per square foot but provides long-term energy savings. Modern building codes often require weather-resistant barriers, adding $150-$300 to project costs while protecting your investment.

Geographic Location

Labor rates vary significantly by region. Urban areas with higher costs of living typically charge 25-50% more than rural markets. Also, some regions require permits costing $30-$200, depending on local building department requirements.

Labor Costs for Siding Installation

Labor costs for siding typically range from $1 to $4 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job and your geographic location. Alternatively, some contractors charge by the hour, with rates averaging $40 to $75 per hour. Professional installation not only ensures proper fit and weather resistance, but also preserves product warranties.

Key Factors That Affect Labor Costs

• Home size and layout: Multi-story homes or homes with complex rooflines and trim details require more time and skill.
• Accessibility: Tight spaces or sloped terrain can increase labor effort and time.
• Material type: Heavier or more fragile materials like fiber cement or stone veneer take longer to install.
• Regional labor rates: Costs vary significantly based on local market demand and wage norms.
• Season and demand: Scheduling your project during peak seasons can increase costs due to contractor demand.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

While DIY siding installation could save anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 in labor, it comes with considerable risk. Professional installers:

• Ensure code compliance and weatherproof sealing
• Provide workmanship warranties
• Help prevent costly mistakes that could lead to moisture damage or voided product warranties

Unless you have prior experience and the proper tools, hiring a licensed contractor is usually the safer and more cost-effective choice.

How to Save on Residing Your Home

You don’t have to compromise on quality to reduce siding costs. With smart planning and informed choices, you can stretch your budget while still achieving great results.

Time Your Project Strategically

Choosing the right season for your project can lead to significant savings.

• Schedule installation during off-peak times like early spring or fall.
• Avoid summer, when demand drives costs up by 15% to 25%.

Optimize Material Selection

The material you choose plays a major role in the overall cost. Certain features and finishes can increase price without offering much added benefit.

• Choose standard-grade siding instead of premium lines for similar durability at a lower cost.
• Smooth textures tend to be less expensive than deeply embossed options.
• Neutral colors are typically more affordable and easier to find.

Get Multiple Quotes and Bundle Work

Gathering bids and combining projects can lower your total cost.

• Request at least three estimates from licensed siding contractors to compare pricing and scope.
• Bundle siding work with roofing or window replacements to negotiate package discounts.

Make Smart Product Choices

Some practical decisions during purchasing can add up to major savings.

• Buy materials in bulk to save 20% to 50% per unit.
• Opt for factory-painted siding to avoid extra painting costs.
• Use builder-grade siding where high-end options aren’t necessary.
• Consider partial replacements if only sections of your siding are damaged.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Installing new siding isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade, it’s also one of the highest-return home improvements you can make. On average, homeowners recoup more than 80% of their siding investment, with additional long-term benefits that extend beyond resale value.

ROI by Material Type

Different siding materials offer varying levels of return, depending on cost, appearance, and buyer appeal.

• Vinyl siding: 80–94% ROI
• Fiber cement: 76–88% ROI
• Wood siding: Around 77% ROI
• Metal siding: Up to 86% ROI
• Manufactured stone: 153% ROI (highest among siding materials)

Long-Term Value Benefits

In addition to resale returns, new siding delivers ongoing advantages:

• Lower maintenance and repair costs
• Enhanced weather resistance
• Improved curb appeal and home protection

These benefits contribute to your overall return on investment over the life of the siding.

Energy Efficiency Savings

High-quality siding with proper insulation improves your home’s energy performance:

• Insulated vinyl and fiber cement can cut heating and cooling costs by 10–25%
• Lower energy bills compound over time, boosting effective ROI
• Some materials may qualify for energy efficiency tax credits or incentives

FAQs

How long does siding replacement take?

Most siding projects take 1-3 weeks depending on home size and complexity. Simple ranch homes may be completed in 5-7 days, while multi-story homes with architectural details require 2-3 weeks.

Should I remove old siding before installing new?

Professional assessment determines whether removal is necessary. Well-attached, flat siding in good condition can often serve as substrate, saving removal costs. However, damaged or deteriorating siding must be removed to ensure proper installation.

What’s the most durable siding material?

Fiber cement and metal siding offer the best durability, lasting 50-100 years with proper maintenance. While vinyl provides excellent value for 30-40 years, premium materials justify higher costs through extended lifespan.

Can I replace siding in winter?

Professional siding installation can occur year-round, though extreme weather may cause delays. Winter installation often provides cost savings due to reduced contractor demand, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners.

Conclusion

Re-siding your home is a substantial investment that offers lasting returns in curb appeal, energy efficiency, and protection. Project costs typically range from about $10,000 for standard vinyl to over $40,000 for high-end materials such as stone veneer. Choosing the right option begins with a clear understanding of your priorities, budget, and the specific needs of your home.

Whether you want to reduce maintenance, improve appearance, or increase durability, the right siding can completely transform your exterior and enhance long-term value.

Ready to move forward? Contact licensed siding contractors in your area for personalized advice and free, no-obligation estimates.